The European Union's humanitarian aid
policy reflects its founding principles - solidarity, tolerance and respect
for human dignity. Humanitarian aid, while not a crisis management tool,
is one of the pillars of Community action for countries affected by natural
or man made disasters as well as by complex emergencies(1). Through its
activities in disaster areas and through its active contribution to promoting
respect for and adherence to International Humanitarian Law, the European
Commission has asserted itself as a major player in international humanitarian
aid.